Hepatitis A Outbreak in Lazio, Italy: Cases Rise, Investigation Underway
Health authorities in the Lazio region of Italy are investigating an increase in Hepatitis A cases, with 24 confirmed infections reported in the province of Latina as of March 23, 2026. Additional cases have been identified in Rome and Viterbo, bringing the total to 120 across the region.
What is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is an acute liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV). According to the Italian Higher Institute of Health, HAV is a picornavirus. The virus has an incubation period ranging from 15 to 50 days and typically follows a self-limiting and benign course, though more serious, even fatal, forms can occur in rare instances. Italian Higher Institute of Health
How is Hepatitis A Transmitted?
Transmission occurs through the fecal-oral route, meaning the virus spreads from the feces of an infected person to the digestive tract of a healthy person. Contamination often occurs through direct contact with an infected individual or by consuming water or food, particularly raw or undercooked shellfish, contaminated with sewage waste containing the virus. Italian Higher Institute of Health
Current Situation in Lazio
The increase in cases was first noted in the province of Latina, affecting multiple municipalities including Aprilia, Fondi, Formia, Latina, Sabaudia, Sermoneta, Campodimele, Priverno, Lenola and Terracina. In Rome, 50 cases have been recorded in areas covered by ASL Roma 1 and Roma 2. Two additional cases have been reported in Viterbo. Agenzia Nova
Currently, none of the patients are reported to be in serious condition, and most are recovering. Agenzia Nova
Investigation and Response
Health officials suspect a link to a batch of mussels originating from the Campania region, which was withdrawn from the market on February 20, 2026. The ASL of Latina has established a multidisciplinary task force to coordinate the response, working with regional health authorities. Agenzia Nova
General practitioners and pediatricians have been alerted to provide information to the public regarding proper hand hygiene and thorough food washing, as well as avoiding the consumption of raw or undercooked foods. Agenzia Nova
Looking Ahead
Regional health authorities expect to release a new epidemiological update on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, but do not anticipate a significant increase in new cases. Monitoring of the situation remains ongoing. Agenzia Nova
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